San Antonio Council Members Outraise Mayor in First Six Months

Councilwoman Alderete Gavito and Councilman Whyte nearly match Mayor Jones' fundraising haul, hinting at future political ambitions.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 7:23pm

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Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones of San Antonio raised just over $53,200 from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2025, according to campaign finance reports. However, her main opponents on the City Council, District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito and District 10 Councilman Marc Whyte, came close to matching her fundraising haul during the same period, raising $42,650 and $36,550 respectively. This has led to speculation about the political ambitions of Alderete Gavito and Whyte, who are seen as potential future candidates for higher office.

Why it matters

The strong fundraising by Alderete Gavito and Whyte, who have clashed with Mayor Jones on several high-profile votes, suggests they may be positioning themselves for future political campaigns, either for reelection to the City Council or for other offices. This could have significant implications for the political landscape in San Antonio in the coming years.

The details

Alderete Gavito and Whyte have both been active in fundraising, hosting supporters at events over the summer. They have also been vocal critics of Mayor Jones, opposing her push to move municipal elections and her attempt to change the steps required to propose new policies. The duo, along with District 5 Councilwoman Teri Castillo, have been seen as a political bloc that has challenged the mayor's agenda.

  • Mayor Jones was sworn in on June 18, 2025.
  • The fundraising period covered in the report was from July 1 to December 31, 2025.

The players

Gina Ortiz Jones

The mayor of San Antonio, who raised just over $53,200 during the reporting period.

Marina Alderete Gavito

The District 7 councilwoman, who raised $42,650 during the reporting period and is seen as having mayoral ambitions.

Marc Whyte

The District 10 councilman, who raised $36,550 during the reporting period and is seen as a potential future candidate for state or federal office.

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What they’re saying

“I think it shows the support of the community for the work that's being done out of our office.”

— Marc Whyte, Councilman (San Antonio Express-News)

“It's so hard to predict because it's so far away.”

— Marina Alderete Gavito, Councilwoman (San Antonio Express-News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.